MAY 2014 Fixing Fhk Pass
Banking on bread
Gearing up for Open Gardens
Q&A with Inesa van Rooyen
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Franschhoek Community Sports Centre breaks ground The first sod was officially turned on 15 April for the long-awaited Franschhoek Valley Community Sport Centre (FVCSC) in Groendal that will open in early 2015. The facility will provide a state-of-the-art multipurpose indoor pitch, training and meeting rooms, a resource centre, showers and kitchen facilities. The project is spear-headed by Hope Through Action (HTA), a UK and SA registered charity, that supports disadvantaged young people, particularly using sport to develop life skills. HTA has been operating a similar facility in Mbekweni since 2010. Across the two facilities, HTA will have invested almost R50-million in these two communities. In addition to the sport centre HTA is constructing a four-classroom school which will be operated by The Kusasa Project. Philip Green, founder of HTA commented, “We have strong local partners, particularly SCORE, who are responsible for delivering the programmes in Mbekweni, and we are delighted that that relationship will continue in Franschhoek. It has taken four years of effort to develop the plans and raise the necessary funds but we are delighted that the same construction team of Fred Laker, from Lyners Consulting, and Power Construction will be working with us in Franschhoek. We still require some funding to complete the project and I would hope that the local community in Franschhoek would help us to raise the financial support necessary”. Stellenbosch Mayor, Conrad Sidego, who turned the first sod with Green, said that many people die long before they are buried as their dreams and potential are never realised. He welcomed the facility because “dreams are realised through action” and “the future of South Africa will be determined by the quality of its youth.”
Philip Greene and Mayor Conrad Sidego turn the first sod for the new sports centre
Local celebrity chef Reuben Riffel, one of the project’s ambassadors – along with Ryk Neethling and Gary Kirsten, described the project as “amazing for Groendal”. He cautioned though that it will remain only a building unless the community gets involved and assumes collective responsibility for the centre. HTA expressed its gratitude to many people who share their vision and who have made this project possible, in particular Western Cape Premier Helen Zille for her invaluable support. Premier Zille added, “I am delighted that HTA is continuing to invest in the lives of our young people. I have been aware of their projects since 2009 and am impressed by their vision and work of creating opportunities through sport to help young people nurture their talents, develop crucial life skills and improve their lives”.
Virgin Limited Edition, Sir Richard Branson’s luxury collection of award-winning retreats, has purchased Mont Rochelle Hotel and Mountain Vineyards. It joins another South African property, Ulusaba Private Game Reserve, in the eclectic portfolio. Sir Richard Branson commented: “I’m thrilled to be able to announce that we are in the process of purchasing Mont Rochelle and what I’m sure will be a ‘must visit’ winelands experience in South Africa and a fantastic addition to the Virgin Limited Edition portfolio.” While already a stunning property, following final purchase proceedings the hotel will close to undertake some refurbishment with a view to re-opening in August 2014.
Foto Artist Studio
Branson buys Franschhoek property
Mont Rochelle Hotel terrace